Porsche to share platforms with Volkswagen

The plan to share platforms was meant to further cooperation between the two carmakers in matters of production. "Porsche needs to become a strong pillar of VW™The Panamera platform could be used by other brands for models that are in development and at the concept stage," said Michael Macht, Porsche's new CEO to Autocar magazine.

Macht also notes that Porsche will not dilute its brand quotient or quality by introducing more technology from Volkswagen into Porsche products. Currently, only the Cayenne has Volkswagen input, with its V6 engine.

Macht had hoped to increase Porsche sales, which has fallen by 24 percent this year due to the global economic downturn. New models are in the works, notably for the Panamera range, where a 6-cylinder model, a hybrid and a diesel variant are expected to be introduced.

However, he ruled out the possibility of an electric-powered Porsche. He said, "The technology that exists now doesn't fit with Porsche requirements. It will be a minimum of two years before the technology is up to scratch."